Springfield, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – Thursday, Springfield Police Chief Ken Scarlette had the honor of swearing in nine new officers during a ceremony held in the City Council Chambers. The ceremony was attended by Mayor Misty Buscher, city officials, and proud family and friends as the newest officers officially took their oath of service.

The Springfield Police Department proudly welcomes the following officers to our ranks:  Parker Adams, Jacob Burton, Dawson Combs, Alexander Deleon, Dakota Moser, Hannah Smith, Hunter
Thompson, Matthew Von Behren Jr., and Mark Williams.

Of the nine new officers, seven recently graduated on April 25, 2025, from the Macon County Law Enforcement Training Center, where they completed their basic law enforcement training. Two officers are joining the Springfield Police Department through lateral transfer from other law enforcement agencies, bringing prior experience to the department.

All nine officers are currently assigned to the Springfield Police Academy where they are undergoing additional department-specific training. In the coming weeks, they will be assigned to the Field Operations Division and begin the field training program, where they will work alongside veteran officers to complete their transition into active service.

“We’re proud to welcome these individuals to our department and to the City of Springfield,” said Scarlette. “They have demonstrated commitment, integrity, and the desire to serve their community—values we hold in the highest regard.”

(Submitted news release)